Hollywood Power Play: In a decisive move, members of the SAG-AFTRA actors union voted in favor of a three-year contract with major studios, bringing an official end to six months of labor disputes that brought film and television production to a standstill. The agreement, which received approval from 78% of those who voted, includes pay raises and streaming bonuses totaling over $1 billion over three years. The contract also addresses concerns about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking, though some actors expressed dissatisfaction with the AI protections outlined in the deal.
SAG-AFTRA, representing approximately 160,000 actors and media professionals, faced challenges as its members walked off the job in July. After reaching a tentative agreement with major studios in November, actors began returning to work immediately. The union reported that 38% of eligible members cast ballots, emphasizing the significance of the contract in shaping the future of Hollywood labor agreements.
Fran Drescher, president of SAG-AFTRA and known for her role in “The Nanny,” expressed enthusiasm about the outcome, stating, “This is a golden age for SAG-AFTRA, and our union has never been more powerful.” The ratification comes after film and television writers went on strike earlier in the year, approving a new contract in October with 99% support.
Read More: Hollywood Renaissance: Lights, Camera, Action After Strikes Curtain Call
The AI provisions in the contract stirred controversy, requiring studios to obtain permission from celebrities for the use of their digital likenesses and compensation for such use. Critics argued that the language could pave the way for the creation of “synthetic performers,” potentially diminishing the need for human actors.
Hollywood studios welcomed the approval of the contract, highlighting the “historic gains and protections” it offers. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) stated that the industry, along with the jobs it supports, would now be able to resume full-force operations.
SAG-AFTRA noted that other Hollywood unions representing crew members, musicians, and drivers are set to begin negotiations on new contracts next year. The groundbreaking gains achieved in this contract will serve as leverage in their respective bargaining efforts, the union added.
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What is the movie power play about?
In the initial 10 overs of an innings, only two fielders can be positioned beyond the 30-yard circle, which is known as the 1st powerplay. From overs 11 to 40, a maximum of four fielders are permitted to be stationed outside the 30-yard circle.